Wei and Jin did not submit to Zhou

Chapter 155 Returning
For those former Shu Han officials who participated in Jiang Wei's counterattack, their fate was already sealed after Zhong Hui was killed by the mutinous Wei soldiers and Jiang Wei fought valiantly but was defeated and committed suicide.

Either way, they can't escape death; the whole family will be wiped out, at most leaving behind a descendant to carry on the bloodline.

Although they all died, the way they died was different. They were all "persuaded" by Shi Shouxin to lead his troops to their homes and commit suicide to die for their country.

After dealing with the Guan family, Shi Shouxin followed the same pattern and successively dealt with the families of Jiang Bin, Zhang Yi, and others.

Because Zhang Yi only had one son, Zhang Wei, who was twenty-five years old, and had only married but had no children, making him the sole heir. Killing him would truly end the Zhang family line.

Considering this situation, Shi Shouxin only confiscated the Zhang family's land and house, and imprisoned them to await further judgment.

The establishment of the Jin state was already imminent, and Sima Zhao's ambition to seize power was no longer concealed. Therefore, even though Zhang Wei was imprisoned and awaiting trial, facing death at any moment, as long as his luck wasn't extremely bad, he would surely receive a general amnesty when the Jin state was founded.

It's only a matter of time before Zhang Wei is rescued.

From the beginning of the Lunar New Year to the Lantern Festival, Shi Shouxin was busy non-stop.

They confiscated and exterminated families outside the region, and plundered wealthy households in Sichuan, forcing them to voluntarily deliver their valuables to camps specifically designated for stockpiling supplies.

Internally, he enforced strict military discipline, rigorously investigated and punished any looting activities carried out by the Wei army, and executed anyone caught.

For a time, Shi Shouxin and his men were infamous for their ruthlessness, enough to stop even the crying of children.

However, because they only did their jobs without accepting gifts or keeping anything for themselves, many people in the Wei army were envious but dared not say anything.

Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, it's the day before the Lantern Festival.

Those former Shu officials who participated in Jiang Wei's counterattack have been mostly dealt with, except for the Fei family. Shi Shouxin also felt somewhat conflicted about this matter.

On one hand, he had gotten his hands on Fei Gong's wife, Liu Yue. Whether he had taken her by force or Zhong Hui had given her to him, the result was the same. Now that Liu Yue was pregnant, Shi Shouxin didn't want to commit any more killings, especially against the Fei family, who were tainted by karma.

Disciplining the Fei family would make outsiders think he acted despicably, causing the destruction of other families for the sake of women.

On the other hand, dealing with the Fei family is a political task, which is no small matter, and it does not involve personal grudges.

Damaging one's reputation for official business is not worth the effort and is not worth doing. Therefore, Shi Shouxin kept delaying until all those who needed to be dealt with had been dealt with before bringing the Fei family's matter to the table.

What do you think should be done about this?

In his study in his residence in Chengdu, Shi Shouxin looked at Li Liang and asked him a question with a conflicted expression.

"To Shi Sima, the Fei family is no different from ants; crushing them is just a matter of a moment's peace."

That's precisely why you should be more careful in doing this; it's not worth damaging the Fei family's reputation for their sake.

Shi Sima is a man destined for great things; we should cherish his influence.

Li Liang commented on this matter.

Shi Shouxin nodded. In fact, that's the truth. To sum it up in three words, it's "not worth it."

"So, letting the Fei family off so easily? That doesn't seem quite right either."

Shi Shouxin felt it was still inappropriate; wouldn't that make him seem guilty?

Moreover, the hatred of having one's wife stolen is no simple matter. Who knows if the Fei family will gain power in the future and then start attacking people indiscriminately?
"Sima Shi, it would be even more inappropriate to let them off lightly. What was your reason for killing Pang Hui back then? The same reason applies to the Fei family now."

What I mean is: not only should we let the Fei family go, but we should even recommend Fei Gong to take up an official post in the State of Wei.

Then, I secretly spread the word that Fei Gong had offered his wife for personal gain and betrayed Jiang Wei in order to escape danger and even get a government position afterward.

In this way, the world will understand what really happened. Even if the Fei family wanted to defend themselves, they would have no way to speak, let alone seek revenge.

Once you become an official, your backbone will soften. In order not to lose your position and benefits, you can only endure any rumors and gossip.

Since Shi Sima has already dealt with so many former officials of Shu and has given an explanation to the King of Jin, whether he kills them or not, the King of Jin will not pursue the matter.

"Of course, Commander Shi doesn't need to get involved in this matter. This humble servant will handle it and get it done."

Li Liang bowed to Shi Shouxin and said.

Some things are not pleasant to say, so Shi Shouxin can't handle them himself; his advisors have to do it.

If the Fei family refuses to yield and insists on hanging themselves from a tree in the southeast, then we should respect their choice.

"Recommending Fei Gong for an official position is a good idea. How about this, when we return to Luoyang, let Fei Gong accompany Liu Shan to Luoyang."

Shi Shouxin nodded.

"By the way, Commander Shi mentioned earlier that he wanted to help recruit talents from Shu. I made some inquiries and compiled a list, please take a look, Commander Shi."

Li Liang took a piece of paper from his sleeve and handed it to Shi Shouxin to look at. The names on it included Luo Xian, Liu Yin, Du Zhen, and others.

Du Zhen was originally Qian Hong's advisor, but now he is unemployed and at home.

Luo Xian is currently defending Yong'an Town, while Liu Yin has probably already surrendered at Huangjinwei, but it is unknown where he is. He is likely not well-liked in Jia Chong's army.

These people are not considered wealthy households yet, and they can go to Luoyang to become officials at any time.

In Shu, there are also some large families, some with thousands of households under their command. Their children must follow the family's arrangements and cannot follow Shi Shouxin.

These people will obey Sima Zhao's arrangements and leave Shu, lest they become too powerful and difficult to control in Shu.

"Then go ask Du Zhen if he'd be willing to serve as my advisor. As for Liu Yin, we'll talk about that after we return to Hanzhong."

Luo Xian was out of the question. Yong'an was too far from Chengdu, and he also had his own troops. Recruiting him would be too risky.

As for the others, ask anyone near Chengdu. Oh, and tell Chen Shou too.”

Shi Shouxin nodded slightly.

He felt that Li Liang was reliable. Although he wasn't exceptionally intelligent, he was steady and meticulous, and could be of great use in the future.

Just as the two were discussing the miscellaneous matters to be taken care of before leaving Shu, a personal guard came in to report that the Commander of the Central Army, Sima Jia Fu, requested an audience.

Shi Shouxin was completely unfamiliar with this person. He only knew that he was a member of Zhong Hui's staff, but that he did not obey Zhong Hui's orders.

He should now be working as an advisor to Wei Guan.

Inviting Jia Fu into the study, Shi Shouxin saw that the man was indeed very young, probably like Yang Xiu, and that this expedition to Shu was just for prestige. He guessed that the man was probably a distant relative of Jia Chong.

Jia Fu didn't stand on ceremony and said directly to Shi Shouxin, "Sir Shi, Commander Wei requests your presence, saying there's something important to discuss."

Important matter? If something happens, can't we just send a messenger to let them know?

Shi Shouxin had some doubts, guessing that the so-called "big event" must be something serious.

He stood up and said, "Then let's go to the central command tent."

The two left the residence, rode their horses to the central army camp, and entered the commander's tent. Wei Guan then waved to Jia Fu, signaling him to leave.

After Shi Shouxin sat down, Wei Guan said nothing and directly spread out a letter on the table for him to see.

Shi Shouxin held the letter in his hand, and then heard Wei Guan say:

"The King of Jin inquired about Deng Ai's affairs. Previously, Zhong Hui had confidently asserted that Deng Ai was plotting a rebellion, but afterwards, Zhong Hui himself became a rebel. Was the rebel in the mouth of the rebel a loyal and righteous man, or just another rebel?"

The King of Jin initially decreed that one person should hold the imperial insignia and two people should act as agents for it.

Nowadays, those who falsely claimed to uphold justice have either rebelled or been arrested.

"Sima Shi is now also acting as a proxy; could you please advise on how this matter should be handled?"

Wei Guan asked slowly. Shi Shouxin cursed inwardly, calling this guy a slippery eel!

The reason Sima Zhao gave Shi Shouxin the title of "Acting General of the Imperial Guard," an appointment that was completely illogical, was because Wei Guan was too slippery in his dealings and was unwilling to step forward and take responsibility!
Even after Zhong Hui's rebellion, Wei Guan remains as slippery as an eel. In any case, the Wei family isn't exactly a small, insignificant household; even if Wei Guan tries to play coy, what can Sima Zhao do to him?

Wei Guan had Sima Zhao completely under his thumb! He knew Sima Zhao was eager to usurp the throne and dared not do anything to the Wei family.

"Is Commander Wei saying that the Prince of Jin is asking whether or not Deng Ai should be killed?"
If Deng Ai deserves to be killed, should we send him to Luoyang to be executed, or should we deal with him in Chengdu?

Is that the correct logic?

Shi Shouxin asked bluntly.

Wei Guan was speechless for a moment, feeling that Shi Shouxin was far too frank! Some things are better left unsaid; how could he say them so openly?
"The King of Jin may simply feel that Zhong Hui and Deng Ai were blaming each other back then, and he couldn't understand what Deng Ai was really thinking."

To kill or not to kill...that's not a decision we can make.

Wei Guan chuckled awkwardly, still going in circles.

Sima Zhao wanted to kill Deng Ai, but he was too embarrassed to say it.

Wei Guan felt it didn't matter whether Deng Ai was killed or not, but he was too embarrassed to agree.

The two exchanged hints, and then they got stuck in an awkward situation, still separated by a thousand miles.

Shi Shouxin felt a stomachache upon reading Sima Zhao's letter!

Therefore, Wei Guan had no choice but to seek Shi Shouxin's help to break the deadlock, since the reason Deng Ai was captured was entirely due to Shi Shouxin's raid in the rainy night!
You started the fire, so you're responsible for putting it out!
That was exactly what Wei Guan was thinking.

“Governor Wei, I believe that this principle cannot be understood without discussion.”

Whether Deng Ai deserves to die is not for you or Mr. Shi to decide, or rather, to presume to kill him.

Why not send him to Luoyang and let the Prince of Jin decide his fate?

Shi Shouxin has passed the buck back to Shi Shouxin.

"Wouldn't the Prince of Jin feel a little embarrassed in this situation?"

Wei Guan asked in confusion, but the words he was about to say were stuck in his throat and he couldn't say them.

"Deng Ai made great contributions in conquering Shu and should be granted the title of king."

However, the Duke of Jin was also the King of Jin. Therefore, Deng Ai and the Duke of Jin shared the same title, which was indeed quite awkward.

The Jin king's invasion of Shu was aimed at changing the dynasty. Deng Ai's failure to recognize the times was his own fault, and he deserved this disaster.

The matter is obvious, yet it cannot be openly stated; the Prince of Jin must be feeling very uncomfortable about it.

Shi Shouxin said with a smile, actually speaking frankly.

Wei Guan rolled his eyes in exasperation. Of course he knew Sima Zhao was in a very awkward position. Otherwise, why would he have summoned Shi Shouxin to discuss how to deal with Deng Ai?
If Deng Ai were sent to Luoyang, wouldn't outsiders think that Sima Zhao was deliberately picking on Deng Ai and deliberately not rewarding his merits?

"You said it yourself, so take Deng Ai back!"

Wei Guan said with a stern face.

"Look at what you're saying. Since Deng Ai was captured by me, then naturally I will send him to Luoyang."

Even if I offend Prince Jin, that's my business, and it certainly won't be blamed on Commander Wei."

Shi Shouxin waved his hand lightly and said casually.

Wei Guan gave him a deep look, his expression turning serious, and he dropped his fake smile.

"Do you know how serious this is? This is a slap in the face to the Prince of Jin!"

Wei Guan's tone was stern.

Sima Zhao now wished he could kill Deng Ai with his own hands! But he couldn't do that, and even had to pretend that "Deng Ai was not self-respecting, and I had no choice but to deal with him."

If we send Deng Ai to Luoyang, I can't even imagine how many people will laugh at us!

“Commander Wei, I have only been an official for a few years, but I know what justice and righteousness are.”

As for Deng Ai, his fate must be dealt with according to the law, whether to kill or release him, there must be rules and regulations, and no private decisions should be made.

This matter will certainly offend the Prince of Jin, and I will take full responsibility; there's nothing more to say.

Shi Shouxin said solemnly.

Seeing his imposing and dignified demeanor, Wei Guan felt a sense of awe.

He sighed, seemingly lamenting for Shi Shouxin:
"Your merit in capturing Deng Ai and killing Zhong Hui during this campaign against Shu is immense and can be considered the greatest achievement. Upon returning to Luoyang, being granted a marquisate will be a certainty. It is no secret that the King of Jin intends to change the dynasty, and you will naturally have a place there when the time comes."

You may feel good doing this now, but the Prince of Jin will definitely not. He might even refuse to let you sit at the table for dinner.

Furthermore, Deng Ai will not be grateful for your righteous words; he will only resent you for arresting him in the first place. Who are you trying to impress by doing this?

Wei Guan looked puzzled. He had initially thought Shi Shouxin was acting impulsively, but judging from what the young man said, he clearly understood the whole situation. There was no recklessness involved at all.

Or, to put it more maliciously, Shi Shouxin might have just wanted to deliberately annoy Sima Zhao.

"This world belongs to all people, not just to the Prince of Jin."

Even if the Prince of Jin dislikes me, the things that need to be done still need to be done, and the reasons that need to be explained still need to be explained.

This is a matter of clear and just punishment; it should be done the way it should be!

Mr. Shi has already made it very clear: I personally escorted Deng Ai back to Luoyang, and I will see it through to the end.

"Commander Wei need not worry about this matter. If the Prince of Jin blames me, I will take the blame."

Shi Shouxin reiterated his assurance to Wei Guan, making it a solemn vow.

"Alright then, after the Lantern Festival, your department will be the first to return."

Liu Shan will also be going to Luoyang; he can go with your troops.

Wei Guan finally stopped dwelling on the matter and instead informed them of the arrangements for their return. As expected, Shi Shouxin and his troops were the first to leave Shu.

"By the way, Yang Hu is coming to Chengdu to serve as the governor of Yizhou, overseeing all military and political affairs in Sichuan."

The imperial court's appointment has been issued and sent to Chengdu.

Yang Hu's troops are probably already on their way and will arrive in Chengdu soon.

Wei Guan remembered this matter and mentioned it briefly.

Although the army that was to conquer Shu was large, in order to prevent them from colluding with local forces, Sima Zhao decided to transfer them all away and reassign Yang Hu to lead 10,000 men to Shu to guard Chengdu.

Something like what happened to Zhong Hui will never happen again.

Hearing Wei Guan's words, Shi Shouxin was not surprised at all. In fact, this was exactly the recommendation he had made in his letter to Sima Zhao.

Sima Zhao was of average appearance and had only so much talent, so Shi Shouxin easily grasped his intentions.

"Then I'll go back and make preparations, since there aren't many days left anyway."

As he spoke, Shi Shouxin rose, bowed, and took his leave.

(End of this chapter)